Sustainable Aviation Fuel: Policy Shift in ATF Blending

Context: The Petroleum Ministry has amended norms to allow blending of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) with synthesised hydrocarbons from non-petroleum sources, promoting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and reducing dependence on crude oil.

  • Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) is the primary fuel used in aircraft, consisting of refined petroleum hydrocarbons meeting IS 1571 standards.
  • The new norms allow blending with synthetic hydrocarbons (IS 17081) derived from non-petroleum sources like biomass, natural gas, or waste.
  • Example: Fuel made from agricultural waste or used cooking oil can now be blended with conventional jet fuel.
  • This aligns with the concept of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which reduces lifecycle carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels.
  • SAF is considered a drop-in fuel, meaning it can be used in existing aircraft engines without major modifications.
  • Blending helps reduce carbon emissions from aviation, a hard-to-decarbonise sector.
  • It also enhances energy security by diversifying fuel sources beyond crude oil imports.
  • The move gains importance amid global oil supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions affecting fuel prices.
  • Feedstocks for synthetic fuels include biomass, municipal waste, and natural gas, processed through chemical conversion technologies.
  • Globally, aviation bodies like ICAO promote SAF under mechanisms such as CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation).
  • India’s push for SAF aligns with climate commitments and long-term goals of net-zero emissions by 2070.

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